Adjustable eyewear restraints, systems, and methods

ABSTRACT

An adjustable eyewear restraint comprises a first strap having a first adjustment end and a first eyewear coupling end, and a second strap having a second adjustment end and a second eyewear coupling end. The straps are slidably and frictionally engageable to one another to allow adjustment of a length of the restraint by moving adjustment ends of the straps relative to each other. The straps can be slidably interwoven to each other about opening(s) of respective adjustment ends. The opening(s) slidably receive an opposing strap. A strap has a loop, coupleable to eyewear, that comprises first and second edges attached together to form an attachment portion substantially in-line with the first edge. A frictional element is frictionally and slidably coupleable to an earpiece to retain the loop and allow adjustment of a length of an eyewear retainer. Associated systems and methods are provided.

PRIORITY DATA

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/579,728, filed Sep. 23, 2019, which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/287,645, filed Oct. 6, 2016, which claims thebenefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/237,970,filed on Oct. 6, 2015, each of which are incorporated herein byreference.

BACKGROUND

Eyewear can have a tendency to become misaligned or maladjusted on auser, rendering the eyewear less effective or inoperable. Even worse,during rigorous physical activities, such as playing a sport, eyewearcan be knocked or otherwise thrown from a user's face. Yet otherenvironments, such a laboratories or workshops may require the frequentdonning and removal of eyewear. In such circumstances as well as others,it may simply be convenient for a user to have a designated place closeat hand to keep the eyewear for ready use.

Accordingly, a variety of fastening mechanisms, straps, lanyards, andthe like have been used to secure eyewear about a user, including in anoperable and desirable position. Many of such fasteners are of a singlefixed length and merely prevent the eyewear from falling to the groundby anchoring the eyewear to a user's neck. Where the fastener is adaptedto secure the eyewear in an operable position (i.e. on a user's face),most often it is difficult or impossible to simply and easily move theeyewear to a non-operable position without completely disassociating theeyewear from the user. This is often due to the difficulty of themechanism provided of tightening and loosening the fastener.

SUMMARY

Accordingly, the present inventor has identified a need for eyewearfasteners that are capable of both securing the eyewear in an operableposition and are simple and easy to adjust in order to allow the eyewearto be easily moved from the operable position to a non-operable positionin some embodiments without effectively untethering the eyewear from theuser. Adjustable eyewear restraints, and associated methods, aredescribed herein that can both secure the eyewear and be easilyadjustable to allow the eyewear to be moved and adjusted in length asdesired by a wearer.

In one example there is provided an adjustable eyewear restraint,comprising a first strap comprising a first adjustment end and a firsteyewear-coupling end, with said first eyewear coupling end beingcoupleable to a first eyewear frame portion. A second strap comprises asecond adjustment end and a second eyewear-coupling end, with saidsecond eyewear coupling end being coupleable to a second eyewear frameportion. Thus, said first strap and said second strap being slidablyengageable to one another to allow adjustment of a length of therestraint by moving at least one of the first adjustment end and thesecond adjustment end relative to the other one. In some examples, thefirst adjustment end of the first strap includes a first openingslidably frictionally engageable to the second strap, and the secondadjustment end of the second strap includes a second opening and a thirdopening. Each of the second and third openings can be slidablyfrictionally engageable to the first strap. Each opening can be sizedand shaped to provide sufficient frictional force, between the openingand the respective strap slidably engageable there through, to retainthe straps to each other about a wearer's head. In some examples, eachopening has a cross sectional area smaller than a cross section area ofthe respective strap slidably engageable through the respective opening.In some examples, each adjustment end comprises a pull tab positioned onthe same side of the retainer when the straps are slidably engaged toeach other. In some examples, the straps are slidably engaged to eachother such that a length of the retainer is shortened when theadjustment ends are pulled away from each other, and such that a lengthof the retainer is lengthened when the adjustment ends are pulled towardeach other. The straps can be slidably interwoven to each other aboutrespective adjustment ends to form a substantially planar retainerconfiguration. In some examples, each opening comprises at least one ofan aperture, a slot, or a loop.

In one example, the first strap comprises a first male attachment and afirst plurality of female attachments, and the second strap comprises asecond male attachment and a second plurality of female attachments. Thefirst plurality of female attachments is selectively interlockable tothe second male attachment, and the second plurality of second femaleattachments is selectively interlockable to the first male attachmentcomponent.

In one example, each strap comprises a first edge and an opposing secondedge attached together, proximate respective eyewear coupling ends, toform a loop that receives a respective earpiece. The edges are attachedto form an attachment portion substantially in-line with the first edge.In one example, the first edge comprises an upper edge extending along alength of the strap, and the second edge comprises a lower edge oppositethe upper edge. In one example, the second edge has a length shorterthan a length of the first edge. In one example, the attachment portionsecures the first edge to the second edge by at least one of stitches,adhesive, fasteners, liquid plastic, and combinations thereof. In oneexample, the attachment portion comprises a predetermined length that isapproximately a length of the second edge. In one example, thepredetermined length is between approximately ⅛ inch and ¾ inch. In oneexample, said loop is sized and shaped to frictionally receive andretain the earpiece. In one example, said loop is sized and shaped toloosely receive the earpiece, wherein an external frictional element isrequired to retain the earpiece within the loop.

In one example there is provided an eyewear restraint system comprisinga strap having an eyewear-coupling end slidably coupleable to anearpiece. The eyewear-coupling end can have a loop sized and shaped toallow a portion of the earpiece to pass through the loop. A frictionalelement is coupleable to the earpiece and positionable adjacent the loopof the strap, with said frictional element having a size and shapesufficient to frictionally engage the earpiece and retain the earpiecethrough the loop. In some examples, the frictional element has aperimeter body portion that defines a cross sectional area larger than across sectional area of an aperture of the loop. In some examples, thefrictional element comprises an O-ring, or other device with anaperture, (e.g. a wedge shaped device) comprised of a compliant materialand having an aperture sized and shaped to receive the earpiece suchthat the frictional element is frictionally and slidably coupleable tothe earpiece for adjustment of the eyewear coupling end.

In one example, the frictional element comprises an earpiece retainerhaving a first end and a second end. The first end is positioned throughthe loop and having an opening sized and shaped to removably attach theearpiece retainer to the earpiece, and the second end is positioned atleast partially within the loop and having an enlarged interfacingportion that frictionally couples the earpiece retainer within the loop.

In one example, the frictional element comprises a panel attached to thestrap adjacent the loop, the friction panel having at least one openingconfigured to retain the earpiece.

In one example there is provided an adjustable eyewear restraint systemcomprising a pair of eyewear having a first earpiece and a secondearpiece. A first adjustable eyewear restraint comprises a pair ofstraps, each strap having a loop slidably coupled to a respectiveearpiece of the pair of eyewear. The pair of straps are slidably andfrictionally engaged to one another to allow adjustment of a length ofthe first adjustable eyewear restraint by moving at least one of thestraps relative to the other strap. A second adjustable eyewearrestraint comprises a pair of frictional elements. Each frictionalelement is slidably and frictionally coupled to a respective earpiece toallow adjustment of a length of the first adjustable eyewear restraintby moving at least one of the frictional elements relative to therespective earpiece. In some examples, each strap comprises an innerplanar surface facing the pair of eyewear and an outer planar surfacepositioned opposite the inner planar surface. Each strap comprises apull tab positioned adjacent the outer planar surface of a respectivestraps such that the pull tabs are graspable proximate the outer planarsurface of each strap.

In some examples, the straps are comprised of a positively buoyantmaterial having a selected volume and density sufficient to impartpositive buoyancy on the pair of eyewear when the straps and eyewear arein fresh or salt water. The positively buoyant material can comprise apolymeric and/or fabric material (e.g. neoprene) material, and the pairof eyewear can weigh at least 30 grams.

In one example there is provided a method of adjusting a length of aneyewear restraint. The method can comprise pulling a first adjustmentend of a first strap away from a second adjustment end of a second strapto shorten a length of the restraint and tighten an eyewear restraintabout a wearer's head when coupled to a pair of eyewear. The first strapcan be slidably and frictionally engaged to the second strap. The methodcan comprise pulling the first and second adjustment ends towards eachother to lengthen a length of the restraint to loosening the restraintabout the wearer's head. The method can comprise disposing a firstearpiece of the pair of eyewear through a first loop of the first strapsuch that the first earpiece extends at least partially through thefirst loop. The method can comprise coupling a first frictional elementto the first earpiece proximate the first loop to retain the firstearpiece through the first loop. The first frictional element isslidably adjustable along the first earpiece to adjust a length of theeyewear restraint.

The method can comprise disposing a second earpiece of the pair ofeyewear through a second loop of the second strap such that the secondearpiece extends at least partially through the second loop. The methodcan comprise coupling a second frictional element to the second earpieceproximate the second loop to retain the second earpiece through thesecond loop. The second frictional element is slidably adjustable alongthe second earpiece to adjust a length of the eyewear restraint.

In one example there is provided a method of making an eyewearrestraint. The method can comprise forming a first strap comprising afirst adjustment end and a first eyewear-coupling end, with said firsteyewear coupling end being coupleable to a first eyewear frame portion.The method can comprise forming a second strap comprising a secondadjustment end and a second eyewear-coupling end, with said secondeyewear coupling end being coupleable to a second eyewear frame portion.Thus, said first strap and said second strap are slidably engageable toone another to allow adjustment of a length of the restraint by movingat least one of the first adjustment end and the second adjustment endrelative to the other one. The method can comprise forming a loop bysecuring a first strap edge to a second strap edge to form an attachmentportion, wherein the attachment portion is substantially in-line withthe first strap edge.

There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, general invention featuresso that the detailed description thereof that follows may be betterunderstood, and so that the present contribution to the art may bebetter appreciated. Other invention features will become clearer fromthe following detailed description, taken with the accompanying drawingsand claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an adjustable eyewear restraint coupledto a pair of eyewear in accordance with one example;

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of an adjustable eyewear restraint coupledto a pair of eyewear in accordance with one example;

FIG. 2A shows various views of a strap of the restraint of FIG. 1B inaccordance with one example;

FIG. 2B shows various views of a strap of the restraint of FIG. 1B inaccordance with one example;

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the adjustable eyewear restraint ofFIG. 1B in accordance with one example;

FIG. 3B illustrates adjustability of the adjustable eyewear restraint ofFIG. 1B in accordance with one example;

FIG. 4A shows inner and outer views of the adjustable eyewear restraintof FIG. 1B in an lengthened state in accordance with one example;

FIG. 4B shows inner and outer views of the adjustable eyewear restraintof FIG. 1B in a shortened state in accordance with one example;

FIG. 5A shows an inner view and a side view strap of an adjustableeyewear restraint in accordance with one example;

FIG. 5B shows an inner view and a side view of an adjustable eyewearrestraint in accordance with one example;

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of an adjustable eyewear restraint inaccordance with one example;

FIG. 6B is a perspective view of the adjustable eyewear restraint ofFIG. 6A in accordance with one example;

FIG. 6C is a perspective view of an adjustable eyewear restraint inaccordance with one example;

FIG. 7A is a schematic outer view of a strap of an adjustable eyewearrestraint in accordance with one example;

FIG. 7B is a schematic outer view of a loop formed from the strap ofFIG. 7A in accordance with one example;

FIG. 8A is a schematic outer view of a frictional element of a strap ofan adjustable eyewear restraint in accordance with one example;

FIG. 8B is a schematic outer view of an earpiece retained in thefrictional element of FIG. 8A in accordance with one example; and

FIG. 9 shows various views of a retainer device for coupling an eyewearrestraint to an earpiece of an eyewear in accordance with one example.

These drawings are provided to illustrate various invention aspects andare not intended to be limiting of the scope in terms of dimensions,materials, configurations, arrangements or proportions unless otherwiselimited by the claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

While these exemplary embodiments are described in sufficient detail toenable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, it should beunderstood that other embodiments may be realized and that variouschanges to the invention may be made without departing from the spiritand scope of the present invention. Thus, the following more detaileddescription of the embodiments of the present invention is not intendedto limit the scope of the invention, as claimed, but is presented forpurposes of illustration only and not limitation to describe thefeatures and characteristics of the present invention, to set forth thebest mode of operation of the invention, and to sufficiently enable oneskilled in the art to practice the invention. Accordingly, the scope ofthe present invention is to be defined solely by the appended claims.

DEFINITIONS

In describing and claiming the present invention, the followingterminology will be used.

The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” provide express support pluralreferents in the written description unless the context clearly dictatesotherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a material” includesreference to one or more of such materials and reference to “thesubject” refers to one or more subjects.

As used herein, the term “substantially” refers to the complete ornearly complete extent or degree of an action, characteristic, property,state, structure, item, or result. For example, an object that is“substantially” enclosed would mean that the object is either completelyenclosed or nearly completely enclosed. The exact allowable degree ofdeviation from absolute completeness may in some cases depend on thespecific context. However, generally speaking the nearness of completionwill be so as to have the same overall result as if absolute and totalcompletion were obtained. The use of “substantially” is equallyapplicable when used in a negative connotation to refer to the completeor near complete lack of an action, characteristic, property, state,structure, item, or result. For example, a composition that is“substantially free of” particles would either completely lackparticles, or so nearly completely lack particles that the effect wouldbe the same as if it completely lacked particles. In other words, acomposition that is “substantially free of” an ingredient or element maystill actually contain such item as long as there is no measurableeffect thereof.

The term “coupled,” as used herein, is defined as directly or indirectlyconnected. “Directly coupled” is defined as actual physical contact orattachment between two objects, structures, or items. “Indirectlycoupled” means that two objects are connected by at least oneintermediate object or structure. Objects, structures, or elementsdescribed herein as being “adjacent to” each other may be connected, inphysical contact with each other, or in close proximity to each other,as appropriate for the context in which the phrase is used.

The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” and the like in thewritten description and in the claims, if any, are used fordistinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily fordescribing a particular sequential or chronological order. It is to beunderstood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriatecircumstances such that the embodiments described herein are, forexample, capable of operation or use in sequences other than thoseillustrated or otherwise described herein. Similarly, if a method isdescribed herein as comprising a series of steps, the order of suchsteps as presented herein is not necessarily the only order in whichsuch steps may be performed, and certain of the stated steps maypossibly be omitted and/or certain other steps not described herein maypossibly be added to the method.

The terms “left,” “right,” “front,” “back,” “top,” “bottom,” “over,”“under,” and the like in the written description and in the claims, ifany, are used for descriptive purposes and not necessarily fordescribing permanent relative positions. It is to be understood that theterms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances suchthat the embodiments described herein are, for example, capable ofoperation in other orientations than those illustrated or otherwisedescribed herein.

As used herein, a plurality of items, structural elements, compositionalelements, and/or materials may be presented in a common list forconvenience. However, these lists should be construed as though eachmember of the list is individually identified as a separate and uniquemember. Thus, no individual member of such list should be construed as ade facto equivalent of any other member of the same list solely based ontheir presentation in a common group without indications to thecontrary.

Numerical data, including dimensions, weight, density, etc., may bepresented herein in a range format. It is to be understood that suchrange format is used merely for convenience and brevity and should beinterpreted flexibly to include not only the numerical values explicitlyrecited as the limits of the range, but also to include all theindividual numerical values or sub-ranges encompassed within that rangeas if each numerical value and sub-range is explicitly recited. Forexample, a numerical range of about 1 to about 4.5 should be interpretedto include not only the explicitly recited limits of 1 to about 4.5, butalso to include individual numerals such as 2, 3, 4, and sub-ranges suchas 1 to 3, 2 to 4, etc. The same principle applies to ranges recitingonly one numerical value, such as “less than about 4.5,” which should beinterpreted to include all of the above-recited values and ranges.Further, such an interpretation should apply regardless of the breadthof the range or the characteristic being described.

Any steps recited in any method or process claims may be executed in anyorder and are not limited to the order presented in the claims.Means-plus-function or step-plus-function limitations will only beemployed where for a specific claim limitation all of the followingconditions are present in that limitation: a) “means for” or “step for”is expressly recited; and b) a corresponding function is expresslyrecited. The structure, material or acts that support the means-plusfunction are expressly recited in the description herein. Accordingly,the scope of the invention should be determined solely by the appendedclaims and their legal equivalents, rather than by the descriptions andexamples given herein.

In this disclosure, “comprises,” “comprising,” “containing” and “having”and the like can have the meaning ascribed to them in U.S. Patent lawand can mean “includes,” “including,” and the like, and are generallyinterpreted to be open ended terms. The terms “consisting of” or“consists of” are closed terms, and include only the components,structures, steps, or the like specifically listed in conjunction withsuch terms, as well as that which is in accordance with U.S. Patent law.“Consisting essentially of” or “consists essentially of” have themeaning generally ascribed to them by U.S. Patent law. In particular,such terms are generally closed terms, with the exception of allowinginclusion of additional items, materials, components, steps, orelements, that do not materially affect the basic and novelcharacteristics or function of the item(s) used in connection therewith.For example, trace elements present in a composition, but not affectingthe compositions nature or characteristics would be permissible ifpresent under the “consisting essentially of” language, even though notexpressly recited in a list of items following such terminology. Whenusing an open ended term in the written description, like “comprising”or “including,” it is understood that direct support should be affordedalso to “consisting essentially of” language as well as “consisting of”language as if stated explicitly and vice versa.

Adjustable Eyewear Restraints

An initial overview of technology embodiments is provided below andspecific technology embodiments are then described in further detail.This initial summary is intended to aid readers in understanding thetechnology more quickly, but is not intended to identify key oressential features of the technology, nor is it intended to limit thescope of the claimed subject matter.

The foregoing detailed description describes the invention withreference to specific exemplary embodiments. However, it will beappreciated that various modifications and changes can be made withoutdeparting from the scope of the present invention as set forth in theappended claims. The detailed description and accompanying drawings areto be regarded as merely illustrative, rather than as restrictive, andall such modifications or changes, if any, are intended to fall withinthe scope of the present invention as described and set forth herein.

FIG. 1A shows an adjustable eyewear restraint 100 coupled to a pair ofeyewear 102 in accordance with one example, and FIG. 1B shows anadjustable eyewear restraint 104 coupled to a pair of eyewear 106 inaccordance with one example.

Regarding FIG. 1A, the adjustable eyewear restraint 100 comprises afirst strap 108 comprising a first adjustment end 110 and a firsteyewear coupling end 112. The first eyewear-coupling end 112 can becoupled to a first eyewear frame portion 114, such as an earpiece 115(or the eyewear-coupling end may be directly coupled to another portionof an eyewear frame, such as ski or scuba goggles, for instance). Theadjustable eyewear restraint 100 comprises a second strap 116 comprisinga second adjustment end 118 and a second eyewear-coupling end 120. Thesecond eyewear-coupling end 120 can be coupled to a second eyewear frameportion 122, such as an earpiece 123 of the eyewear 102. As furtherdescribed below, the first strap 108 and the second strap 116 areslidably engaged (or engageable) to one another to allow adjustment of alength of the restraint 100 by moving at least one of the firstadjustment end 110 and the second adjustment end 120 relative to theother one (see e.g., FIGS. 3A-4B).

Similarly (but somewhat inversely), FIG. 1B shows the adjustable eyewearrestraint 104 comprising a first strap 150 comprising a first adjustmentend 152 and a first eyewear-coupling end 154. The first eyewear-couplingend 154 can be coupled to a first eyewear frame portion 156, such as anearpiece 158. The adjustable eyewear restraint 104 comprises a secondstrap 160 comprising a second adjustment end 162 and a secondeyewear-coupling end 164. The second eyewear coupling end 164 can becoupled to a second eyewear frame portion 166, such as an earpiece 168of the eyewear 106. As further described herein, the first strap 150 andthe second strap 160 are slidably engaged (or engageable) to one anotherto allow adjustment of a length of the restraint 104 by moving at leastone of the first adjustment end 152 and the second adjustment end 162relative to the other one (see e.g., FIGS. 3A-4B).

FIG. 1B will not be discussed in as much detail as the configuration ofFIG. 1A, but as can be appreciated from comparing the views of FIGS. 1Aand 1B (and the following description), the restraint 104 of FIG. 1B hasan inverse configuration to that of restraint 100 of FIG. 1A. Meaningthat the straps are reversed, but effectively operate the same, and aresimilarly shaped and sized. Of further note, FIG. 1B is illustrated toshow straps that are slightly larger and thicker than that of FIG. 1A,which is to illustrate that the straps of the restraint 104 can becomprise a relatively thicker positively buoyant material (e.g.,neoprene) having a selected volume and density sufficient to impartpositive buoyancy on the pair of eyewear when the restraint 104 andeyewear 106 are in fresh or salt water. For example, assume the pair ofeyewear weigh at least 30 grams, then the restraint can be a selectedtype of material, an overall volume of material, and a density to imparta collective positive buoyancy to the restraint and the eyewear. Thus,if the restraint and eyewear are dropped into fresh or salt water, theywill float for easy retrieval. This can also be true for the restraint100 of FIG. 1A.

FIGS. 2A-4B show various views and configurations of the adjustableeyewear restraint 100 of FIG. 1A. Specifically, FIG. 2A shows the secondstrap 116 and FIG. 2B shows the first strap 108. FIG. 2A shows firstside view (e.g. inside view) A, a second side view (e.g. outside viewB), a top view C, a bottom view D, an eyewear-coupling end view E, andan adjustment end view F, of the second strap 116. Likewise, FIG. 2Bshows a first side view (e.g. and inside view) view G, a second sideview (e.g. an outside view) H, a top view I, a bottom view J, aneyewear-coupling end view K, and an adjustment end view L, of the firststrap 108.

In one example, the first strap 108 comprises the adjustment end 110that has a first opening 200 (such as a slot or other aperture) formedthrough the adjustment end 110. The first opening 200 can be verticallyoriented relative to the horizontal length of the strap 108, and canhave a height H₁ and a width W₁. The first strap 108 comprises a middlesection 202 defined between the adjustment end 118 and the eyewearcoupling end 112. The middle section 202 has a height H₂ and a thicknessT₁, and the adjustment end 118 has a height H₃, which is sized largerthan H₁ and sized to allow a wearer to grab a portion of the adjustmentend 118. Similarly, the second strap 116 comprises the adjustment end110 that includes a second opening 204 and a third opening 206, such asparallel slots, formed through the adjustment end 110. The second andthird openings 204 and 206 each have a height H₄ and a width W₂, whichmay be the same or substantially the same dimensions as H₁ and W₁ of thefirst opening 200. The second strap 116 comprises a middle section 204between the adjustment end 110 and the eyewear-coupling end 120. Themiddle section 204 has a height H₅ and a thickness T₂, and theadjustment end 110 has a height H₆.

The openings 200, 204, and/or 206 can be rectangular slots formedvertically as shown, or they can be straight openings orarced/non-linear openings, and can be slits, ellipses, or any othersuitable configuration that can receive a middle section of eitherstrap, as the case may be. In one embodiment, the openings do not have aclosed perimeter, but rather can include an opening that reaches an edgeof the strap to form a “U-shaped open slot” for example. Such an openingat the edge of the strap allows engagement of the other strap by slidingthe strap through the open edge. This may be useful in cases where theadjustment ends are semi-rigid or rigid to provide sufficient structuralsupport for an open slot to receive a middle section from an upper orlower area of the slot, for example.

As illustrated best on FIGS. 2A and 2B, the straps 108 and 116 aresubstantially planar along the length of the adjustment ends and themiddle sections. This helps to overlay the straps on each other and flatagainst a wearer's head, which further contributes to the frictionalforce between the straps because surfaces of the middle sections can beslidably biased against each other to increase the frictional forcebetween the straps.

As further illustrated on FIGS. 3A and 3B, a portion of the middlesection 202 of the first strap 108 extends through the second opening204 of the second strap 116 about an inner side 300 of the second strap116. A portion of the middle section 202 of the first strap 108 furtherextends through the third opening 206 about an outer side 302 of thesecond strap 116, and through toward the inner side 300 of the firststrap 108. Thus, a transition section 304 of the first strap 108 extendsbetween the second and third openings 204 and 206. Similarly, the secondstrap 116 extends through the first opening 200 about an outer side 306of the first strap 108. Accordingly, the first strap 108 is in aninterwoven configuration with the second strap 116, as shown, throughthe second and third openings 204 and 206. Therefore, the straps 108 and116 are slidably interwoven to each other about respective adjustmentends to form a substantially planar retainer configuration. This is bestshown on FIGS. 1A and 1B where the retainers are collectivelysubstantially flat (in an arc) when overlaying each other on a wearer'shead. The openings of the adjustment ends need not be disposed throughthe adjustment ends. Rather, they could be disposed through an area ofthe middle section(s) of the straps.

Accordingly, the first and second straps 108 and 116 are slidablyengaged to each other and movable relative to each other,bi-directional, as illustrated by arrows X on FIG. 3B when a wearerpulls the adjustment ends 110 and 118 toward each other or away fromeach other. In this way, the adjustment end 118 can have a pull tab 310and the adjustment end 110 can have a pull tab 312. The pull tabs 310and 312 can be sized and shaped, as shown, such that a wearer can gripeach tab with a respective thumb and index finger, for example, whenadjusting the restraint 100. Any shape, size, or configuration thatfacilitates or eases grasping by a user can be employed. Advantageously,the pull tabs 310 and 312 are each positioned on the same side,specifically on an outer side of the restraint 100 (e.g. outer, or sidefacing away from a user's head when the restraint is in use), so thatthe wearer can readily locate and pull the tabs as desired. In analternative embodiment, the pull tabs can both be positioned on theother side of the straps (i.e. on the inner or side facing toward ausers' head when the restraint is in use) however, and can have anadditional finger engagement portion than as shown, for example,elongated or enlarged shapes (e.g. a flange) that allow a user to graspthe tabs above, or below the straps. In some embodiments, the tabs canbe on opposite sides of the retainer with one tab on a side facing awayfrom a user's head and the other tab on a side facing toward the user'shead. Again, enlarged or flanged shapes can be used to aid a user'sgrasp on the tabs.

The openings 200, 204 and 206 are sized and shaped, and selected from aparticular material, to provide a frictionally adjustable restraint 100about a wearer's head. More specifically, middle section 202 isfrictionally and slidably coupled to the second and third openings 204and 206, and middle section 204 is frictionally and slidably coupled tothe first opening 200. The straps 108 and 116 can be comprised of anelastomeric or highly elastomeric, material or fabric (e.g. neoprene)material having a known friction coefficient such that, when arranged asin FIG. 3A, a certain amount of pulling force (kinetic friction force)is required to overcome the (static) frictional force between theopenings 202, 204 and the middle section 202 of the first strap 208.Alternatively, the straps can be made from a less elastomeric material(e.g. leather), which can impart frictional forces between the strapssimilarly as neoprene straps, or can include the use of an additionalpiece of friction-adding material. Furthermore, friction can beincreased for less elastomeric materials by increasing the number ofopenings or slots through which the straps pass or are interwoven. Insome embodiments, each strap can include between 1 and 5 lots oropenings. In other embodiments, the number of openings on each strap canbe different and thus allow both pull tabs 310 and 312 to be on the sameside of the restraint. For example, one strap can have an even number ofopenings or slots while the other strap has an even number of openingsor slots. In alternative embodiments, when the pull tabs 310 and 312 areon opposite sides of the restraint, the number of openings or slots ineach strap can be the same, or can be both an even number or both an oddnumber.

Of note, the angle or direction at which each strap extends through arespective opening contributes to the frictional force (static andkinetic) existing between the straps and the opening(s) through whichthe strap(s) extends. For instance, as illustrated on FIG.

3A, the first strap 108 extends through the second opening 204 from alower left direction such that the second opening 204 tends to pinch orbind the strap 208, thereby contributing to the friction between thestraps when on a wearer's head.

In some examples, the force required to move or slide one of theadjustment ends relative to a strap can be 0.10 pounds, and up to 2.5pounds (i.e., 0.20 pounds of collective force to move both adjustmentends, for instance). In some instances, such as with prescriptionglasses weighing only 15-20 grams, for instance, said force can be lessthan 0.10 pounds. In other instances with larger, heavier eyewear (e.g.,30 grams or more), said force for each adjustment end can be more than0.10 pounds, and sometimes greater than 2.5 pounds of force to move anadjustment end. Thus, a particular restraint can be “tuned” for aparticular application, such as selecting certain materials for straps,having certain sized openings and strap dimensions, etc.

In some examples, the opening 200 can have the height H₁ that is shorterthan a height H₅ of the middle section 203 of the second strap 116.Likewise, width W₁ can be shorter than thickness T₁ of the first strap108. Said another way, the area defined by the opening 200 can besmaller than a cross sectional area of the middle section 203 of thesecond strap 116. In this manner, because neoprene is compliant (andflexible), for example, the opening 200 can effectively “squeeze” orcompress the second strap 116 to increase or optimize the frictionalforce between the straps to a desired frictional force (static andkinetic). The same holds true for the second and third openings 204 and206 that receive the first strap 108. In other examples, the openings200, 204, and/or 206 can have an area larger than a cross sectional areaof respective middle sections extending through said opening(s), whichcan be advantageous in examples where the straps are comprised of a morerigid material than neoprene, such as woven fabric, leather, and theother similar materials (or in examples where the adjustment ends and/oropenings are comprised of a rigid material, such as certain plastics,rubbers, etc.). In any event, the openings can be sized and shaped toimpart a desired frictional force between the straps such that anattached pair of eyewear is restrained on a wearer's head, and such thatthe restraint 100 is only adjusted when desired by the wearer (i.e., bypulling on the adjustment end(s)).

In some examples, a particular neoprene strap (108 and 116, for example)can have a thickness (e.g., T₁ or T₂) of 0.5 mm up to 5.0 mm. As known,neoprene straps have a rubber core that is laminated with a polyester ornylon fabric. Therefore, such fabric coating (e.g., inner and outersides of straps 108 and 116) will have a known and selectablecoefficient of friction, and the rubber core (e.g., within an opening)will have a known and selectable coefficient of friction. Suchcoefficients are factors when determining the size of the openings, thethickness of the straps, etc.

In some examples, a variety of neoprene materials can be used to formthe straps 108 and 116 (for example), such as F Foam, J Foam, K Foam, LFoam, and the like, and combinations thereof. In one example of thestraps 108 and 116 being comprised of L Foam neoprene, such material hasa density of approximately 0.17-0.21 g/cm³ and a compression deflectionof 0.28-0.38 kg/m³. Accordingly, assuming each strap is 4 mm thick, 23cm long, 19 mm tall at the middle section, and approximately 32 mm tallat the adjustment end section, an L Foam neoprene material wouldnecessarily provide sufficient positive buoyancy to a pair of eyewearweighing approximately 30 grams or less, for instance. Moreover, an LFoam neoprene material with a nylon fabric coating would have sufficientfriction between the straps about respective openings and strap surfacesto hold a pair of eyewear about a wearer's head.

FIG. 4A shows a first side (e.g. an inner side) view I and a second side(e.g. an outer side) view O of the restraint 100 in a loosened positionL, and FIG. 4B shows first side (e.g. an inner side) view I and a secondside (e.g. an outer side) view O of the restraint 100 in a tightenedposition T. This means that, on FIG. 4A, the adjustment ends 110 and 118are positioned adjacent or proximate each other such that a length ofthe restraint 100 is at or near its longest possible configuration.Conversely, FIG. 4B shows the adjustment ends 110 and 118 farther awayfrom each other than on FIG. 4A such that a length of the restraint 100is at or near its shortest (e.g., worn tightest) possible configuration.

FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate an example of removably attaching straps of arestraint. Each Figure shows an inner view I of a strap and a side viewS of said strap. Specifically, a first strap 508 can have a similarshape and configuration as the first strap 108 of FIG. 2B. Accordingly,the first strap 508 can have an adjustment end 518 having a firstopening 500, and a middle section 502 (only partially shown). And, asecond strap 516 (FIG. 5B) can have a similar shape and configuration asthe second strap 116 of FIG. 2A. Accordingly, the second strap 516 canhave an adjustment end 510 having second opening 504 and a third opening506, and a middle section 503 (only partially shown). Therefore, thefirst strap 508 can be slidably and frictionally engaged to the firstopening 500, and the second strap 516 can be slidably and frictionallyengaged to the second and third openings 504 and 506, as similarly shownon FIGS. 3A and 3B.

The first strap 508 can comprise a first male attachment 550 and a firstplurality of female attachments 552 (e.g., holes through the strap).Likewise, the second strap 516 can comprise a second male attachment 554and a second plurality of female attachments 556. The male attachments550 and 554 can be posts with a flange that extends from an innersurface of respective adjustment ends 510 and 518. The male attachments550 and 554 can be sized and shaped to frictionally fit or snap-fitthrough a selected female attachment of an opposing strap. For example,the first male attachment 550 can be interlocked to (e.g., removablycoupled to) one of the second plurality of female attachments 556, whichremovably secures the first strap 508 to the second strap 516. In thisway, a flange 558 of a post 560 of the male attachment 550 is disposedthrough a female attachment 552 on an opposing side of the strap 516such that the flange 558 retains the adjustment end 518 to the strap516. The male attachment 550 can then be removed by pulling on theadjustment end 518, for instance, and then coupled to a different femaleattachment 556 for adjusting a length of a restraint as desired.Likewise, the second male attachment 554 can be interlocked to (e.g.,removably coupled to) one of the first plurality of female attachments552, which removably secures the second strap 516 to the first strap508. In some examples, the male and female attachments are comprised ofa semi-rigid material, such as certain plastics and polymers, to ensureproper attachment between the male and female attachments.

FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate an adjustable eyewear restraint system 600according to one example. The system 600 can comprise a strap 602 havingan eyewear-coupling end 604 slidably coupleable to an earpiece 606 of apair of eyewear 608, such as described with reference to FIGS. 1A and1B. The eyewear-coupling end 604 comprises a loop 610 size and shaped toallow a portion (e.g., an end) of the earpiece 606 to pass through theloop 610 (e.g., see loop 714 of FIG. 7B). In one example, a crosssectional area of the loop 610 is the same size or smaller than a crosssectional area of the earpiece 606, thus allowing the loop tofrictionally (e.g. tightly) engage the earpiece 606. In this embodiment,the elastomeric material can be selected so as to exert a sufficientfrictional force to retain the earpiece in the loop without furtherassistance. In some embodiments, the inner material of the loop can be amaterial with a coefficient of friction that further aids in retainingthe eyepiece within the loop (e.g. channel, tube, etc.) and the lengthof the loop can further be used to add or reduce the frictionalrelationship between the loop and the earpiece. In some embodiments, theloop can have a larger than a cross sectional area of the earpiece 606such that the loop 610 loosely fits around the earpiece 606. This allowsfor the loop 610 to easily engage a variety of sizes of earpieceswithout the requirement of substantial force during the engagementprocess. It also prevents the loop 610 from stretching out or failingdue to exhaustion or fatigue in the material thus causing the frictionfit to be reduced or lost. Thus, having the loop sized to be loosearound an earpiece provides longevity of the loop 610 and reliabilityfor repeated uses and/or with different sized earpieces.

In embodiments where the loop 610 is loosely fit around the earpiece606, a frictional element 612 can be coupled to the earpiece 606 andpositioned adjacent the loop 610 proximate an inner side 614 of the loop610. The loop and frictional element can work cooperatively as a systemfor retaining the eyewear. In one example, the frictional element 612 isan O-ring having a perimeter body section with a cross sectional arealarger than a cross sectional area of an opening of the loop 610 (FIGS.6A and 6B). The frictional element 612 can have an aperture 616 sizedand shaped sufficient to frictionally engage the earpiece 606 and retainthe earpiece 606 within the loop 610, thereby preventing the loop 604from sliding off of the earpiece 606. In one example, the frictionalelement 612 can comprise a compliant material that is frictionally andslidably coupled to the earpiece 606 for adjustment of the eyewearcoupling end 604. This means that the frictional element 612 can beslidably moved by a wearer bi-directionally along the earpiece 606 (seearrows Z) such that the eyewear coupling end 604 is also slidably movedabout the same direction and distance as the frictional element 612along the earpiece 606. Such movement of the eyewear coupling end 604can therefore adjust a length of the strap 602 of a restraint.Therefore, a pair of frictional elements such as 612 can be incorporatedwith the adjustable eyewear restraint 100 of FIG. 1A, which thereforeprovides an additional mechanism to adjust the straps about a wearer'shead to a desired position and tightness, for instance. Any material,size, or shape that can provide sufficient friction to hold in place onan earpiece can be used.

Furthermore, dual-systems for adjusting an eyewear restraint arepossible when a pair of frictional elements like 612 (or 662 of FIG. 6C)are incorporated with the adjustable straps of FIGS. 1A-6B, therebycombining two systems of adjustability. And, when the adjustable strapsare pulled, as on FIG. 3B, the frictional elements of the presentdisclosure provide a counter-acting force against the pulling force ofthe wearer in order to retain the eyewear coupling ends to a pair ofeyewear.

FIG. 6C illustrates an adjustable eyewear restraint system 650 accordingto one example. The system 650 can comprise a strap 652 having aneyewear coupling end 654 slidably coupleable to an earpiece 656 of apair of eyewear (e.g., 608), such as described with reference to FIGS.1A and 1B. The eyewear coupling end 654 comprises a loop 660 (e.g., 714of FIG. 7B) sized and shaped to allow a portion (e.g., an end) of theearpiece 656 to pass through the loop 660. In one example, a crosssectional area of the loop 660 is larger than a cross sectional area ofthe earpiece 656 such that the loop 660 loosely fits around the earpiece656 (as with FIG. 6A). Accordingly, a frictional element 662 can coupledto the earpiece 656 and can be positioned adjacent the loop 660proximate an inner side 664 of the loop 660. In one example, thefrictional element 662 is a wedge (or other body) having a perimeterbody section with a cross sectional area larger than a cross sectionalarea of an opening of the loop 660 to retain the earpiece 656 within theloop 654. The frictional element 662 can have an aperture 666 sized andshaped sufficient to frictionally engage the earpiece 656 and retain theearpiece 656 through the loop 660, thereby preventing the loop 654 fromsliding off of the earpiece 656. The aperture 666 of the frictionalelement 662 can extend all the way through the frictional element 662(as in FIG. 6C), or it can be a bore (not shown) that stops partiallythrough the frictional element 662 to receive an end of the earpiece656. The aperture 666 can be sized to receive smaller earpieces (i.e.,prescription frames) as can be seen when comparing FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C.

The frictional element 662 can comprise a compliant material and can befrictionally and slidably coupled to the earpiece 656 for adjustment ofthe eyewear coupling end 654. This means that the frictional element 662can be slidably moved by a wearer bi-directionally along the earpiece656 (see arrows Y) such that the eyewear coupling end 654 is alsoslidably moved in the same direction and distance as the frictionalelement 662. Such movement of the eyewear coupling end 654 can adjust alength of the strap 652. Therefore, a pair of frictional elements suchas 662 can be incorporated with the adjustable eyewear restraint 100 ofFIG. 1A, which therefore provides an additional mechanism to adjust thestraps about a wearer's head to a desired position and tightness, forinstance.

Notably, regarding FIG. 6A-6C, the eyewear coupling ends 604 and 654each include an attachment portion 670 about which edges of the strapsare attached together (e.g., sewn), as will be further discussed below.As shown, the attachment portion 670 is position in an upwardly facingmanner relative to the earpiece and the wearer's standing position. Thisis advantageous over existing restraint systems because the attachmentportion 670 does not contact the wearer's head (e.g., scalp and ear),which reduces or eliminates chaffing or skin irritation as compared torestraints that have different configurations where an attachment areacontacts the wearer, as further discussed herein. In some embodimentsthat employ such eyewear coupling ends, the retainer can be eitheradjustable as described herein, or non-adjustable, for example, a singlepiece of material.

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate an eyewear-coupling end 700 and method ofmaking the eyewear coupling end 700 (such as the eyewear coupling endsshown and discussed in FIGS. 1A-6C). Here, the eyewear-coupling end 700is formed from a strap 702 of an eyewear restraint. The strap 702 has afirst edge 704 and an opposing second edge 706, which may besubstantially parallel to each other. The first edge 704 may extendalong a distance of a length of the strap 702, such as on FIGS. 2A and2B. The second edge 706 is shorter than the first edge 704. As shown onFIG. 7A (in a pre-completed configuration) the strap 702 is cut andshaped like a “key” such that the strap 702 has an elongated middlesection 708 that has a consistent length and width and that isterminated proximate the location of the second edge 706. In otherwords, the second edge 706 can be positioned on a flange portion 710 atan end of the strap 702. The flange portion 710 is formed downwardly andsubstantially perpendicular from a length of the middle section 708 ofthe strap 702 (but it can be formed at other angles and/or curvededges).

Once the strap 702 is formed as shown on FIG. 7A, the flange portion 710is rotated upwardly toward the first edge 704 (as shown by the arrow M)such that the first edge 704 and the second edge 706 are in-line andadjacent each other, thereby having proximately a common collective edgeregion. The first and second edges 704 and 706 can then be attached toeach other to form an attachment portion 712 (such as 670 of FIGS.6A-6C). Accordingly, a loop 714 is thereby formed having an outeropening 716 and an inner opening 718, which may have a substantiallyuniform or consistent tubular shape that is flexible and compliant, forinstance. The outer opening 716 can receive an earpiece (e.g., FIG. 6A),and the inner opening 718 can allow the earpiece to pass through.

Therefore, the attachment portion 712 is configured such that the firstedge 704 (e.g., upper edge) and the second edge 706 (e.g., lower edge)are attached together substantially in-line with the first edge 704, asshown on FIG. 7B. The resulting configuration provides an attachmentportion 712 that is upwardly facing relative to an earpiece when on awearer. The attachment portion 712 secures the first edge 704 to thesecond edge 706 by at least one of stitches, adhesive, fasteners (e.g.,plastic crimps), liquid plastic (e.g., using UV rays to adhere), andcombinations thereof. FIG. 7B shows fabric stitches 718 that attach theedges 702 and 706 together. It will be appreciated from the views thatonly a section of the first edge 702 is attached to the second edge 706.

As shown, the attachment portion 712 has a predetermined length that isapproximately a length of the second edge 706, which can be betweenapproximately ⅛ inch and ¾ inch. This is advantageous because existingsystems can have loops that are 1 inch or longer, which can cause skinirritation or discomfort. The loop 714 can be sized and shaped tofrictionally receive and retain an earpiece, or it can be sized andshaped to loosely receive an earpiece.

Although edge 704 is shown substantially linear, it can have anon-linear or flange portion extending upwardly proximate where it wouldbe attached to the second edge 706 (e.g., FIG. 7A could show a somewhat“T” shape configuration).

FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate an example of an adjustable eyewear restraintsystem 800. The adjustable eyewear restraint system 800 can comprise astrap 802 having an eyewear-coupling end 804 with a loop 806 to receivean earpiece 808, as similarly described herein. A frictional element 810can be coupled to the strap 802 adjacent the loop 806 (e.g., on an innerside of the loop as shown). Here, the frictional element 810 is africtional panel having a pair of openings 812 and 814. The frictionalelement 810 can be attached to the strap 802 by a pair of opposingstitches 816 and 818, or it can be attached by other devices, such asadhesive. As illustrated on FIG. 8B, a tip portion 820 of the earpiece808 extends through opening 814 and through opening 812 in an interwovenmanner such that a middle portion 822 of the frictional element 810 isexposed and assists to retain or pinch the earpiece 808 against thestrap 802. The openings 812 and 814 can be slits or slots (or otherapertures) that are sized and shaped to receive an earpiece whileimparting friction between the strap 802, the frictional element 810,and the earpiece 808 to prevent the earpiece 808 from falling out on itsown. The frictional element 810, therefore, is configured to retain theearpiece 808, but also allow the earpiece 808 to be inserted and removedwith relative ease by a wearer. For instance, 0.5 pounds of force may beused to insert and removed the earpiece 808 about the frictional element810. Here, the openings 812 and 814 are vertical slits relative to anelongated length of the strap 802, but the openings can be formed atdifferent angles, arcs, and other configurations that can impartfrictional force between the strap and the earpiece. In one example,slits or other openings can be formed directly through the strap 802itself to receive and retain an earpiece.

FIG. 9 shows various views of an example frictional element 900 that canbe removably coupled to an earpiece and to a loop of a strap to retainthe earpiece to the strap. Here, the frictional element 900 comprises anearpiece retainer 902. Thus, FIG. 9 shows a side view S, a front view F,and a rear view R of the earpiece retainer 902. The earpiece retainer902 can comprise a first end 904 and a second end 906. The first end 904can be positioned through a loop 907 of a strap 909 (both 907 and 909are illustrated in dashed lines), such at the loop and strap of FIG. 7B.The first end 904 can have an opening 908 sized and shaped to removablyattach the earpiece retainer 902 to the earpiece. In this way, theearpiece retainer 902 can be comprised of a compliant material, such ascertain plastics, rubbers, and polymers, which allows the opening 908 toexpand slightly for a friction fit to an earpiece. The second end 906can be positioned at least partially within the loop 907 and can have anenlarged interfacing portion 910 that frictionally couples the earpieceretainer 902 within the loop 907. In this manner, the enlargedinterfacing portion 910 can be an outwardly tapered portion that has across sectional area larger than a cross sectional area of the loop 907so that the earpiece retainer 902 cannot be removed through the loop tothe right side (of the page) toward a pair of eyewear, but that it canonly be removed to the left side away from pair of eyewear when removingthe earpiece retainer 902 from an earpiece. This configuration retainsan earpiece to the strap 909. The eyewear retainer 902 can have verticalribs 912 that are frictionally engaged to an inner surface of the loop907 to assist with retaining the retainer and attached earpiece to theloop and the strap. In practice, the earpiece retainer 902 is firstinserted into the loop from an inner or left side of the loop 907 (as inFIG. 9), and then an earpiece of eyewear can be inserted through a rightopening of the loop 907, and then the earpiece can be frictionally fitinto the opening 908 of the eyewear retainer 902. These steps can bereversed for removal of the earpiece from the retainer 902.

In one example there is provided a method of adjusting a length of aneyewear restraint, such as shown and discussed regarding FIGS. 1A-9. Themethod can comprise pulling a first adjustment end 118 of a first strap108 away from a second adjustment end 110 of a second strap 116 toshorten a length of the restraint 100 (or 104) to tightening an eyewearrestraint about a wearer's head when coupled to a pair of eyewear (seee.g., FIG. 1). The first strap can be slidably and frictionally engagedto the second strap, as discussed specifically regarding FIGS. 3A and3B. The method can comprise pulling the first and second adjustment endstowards each other to lengthen a length of the restraint to looseningthe restraint about the wearer's head. The method can comprise disposinga first earpiece of the pair of eyewear through a first loop of thefirst strap such that the first earpiece extends at least partiallythrough the first loop. The method can comprise coupling a firstfrictional element (e.g., 612, 662, 810, or 902) to the first earpieceproximate the first loop to retain the first earpiece through the firstloop (e.g., see the discussion of FIGS. 6A-9) . The first frictionalelement can be slidably adjustable along the first earpiece to adjust alength of the eyewear restraint. Likewise, the method can comprisesimilar operations to couple a second frictional element to an opposingearpiece of a pair of eyewear.

In one example there is provided a method of making an eyewearrestraint, such as the adjustable eyewear restraints discussed regardingFIGS. 1A-7B. The method can comprise forming a first strap 108comprising a first adjustment end 118 and a first eyewear-coupling end112. Said first eyewear coupling end can be coupleable to a firsteyewear frame portion (e.g., FIG. 6A). The method can comprise forming asecond strap 116 comprising a second adjustment end 110 and a secondeyewear-coupling end 120. Said second eyewear coupling end can becoupleable to a second eyewear frame portion (e.g., FIG. 6A). Thus, saidfirst strap and said second strap are slidably engageable to one anotherto allow adjustment of a length of the restraint by moving at least oneof the first adjustment end and the second adjustment end relative tothe other one, such as described in greater detail regarding FIGS. 3Aand 3B. The method can comprise forming a loop (e.g., 714 of FIG. 7B) bysecuring a first strap edge to a second strap edge to form an attachmentportion, wherein the attachment portion is substantially in-line withthe first strap edge, as further described in greater detail regardingFIGS. 7A and 7B.

The first and second straps discussed herein can be made of the samematerial or different materials. In one aspect, they can be made of thesame material. In another aspect, they can be made of differentmaterials. The straps can be made of a number of suitable materials. Inone embodiment the materials can be flexible materials. In anotherembodiment they can be elastomeric materials. Non-limiting examples ofmaterials that can be used to make the straps can include neoprene,neogreen, lycra, thermocline, silicone rubber, polyesters, polyamides,polypropylenes, cotton, silk, wool, leather, the like, and combinationsthereof.

The adjustable eyewear restraints discussed herein can be adapted toengage a variety of eyewear devices. Non-limiting examples of eyewearcan include prescription eyewear, non-prescription eyewear, safety orprotective eyewear, swimming eyewear, magnification eyewear,electronic-display eyewear, and the like. In some aspects, theadjustable eyewear restraint can be universal or nearly universal and asingle device can be capable of engaging and being used with nearly anytype, size, or shape of eyewear.

Further, a variety of anchoring mechanisms can be used in the currenttechnology. Non-limiting examples can include friction-fit mechanisms(such as 130 a, 130 b), closeable loops, cinches, tying mechanisms,snaps, buckles, Velcro, magnets, adhesive, and the like. Accordingly,the anchoring mechanisms can be adapted to temporarily or permanentlyattach the adjustable eyewear restraint to the intended eyewear. In oneembodiment, the anchoring mechanism may simply be a tube that is madefrom the material of the restraint. When flexible elastomeric materialis used for the restraint, the attachment ends may be created by simplyfolding the strap lengthwise and stitching it together to create a tube.The tube can then be engaged with an earpiece of an eyewear by slidingthe tube lengthwise over the end of the earpiece.

The apertures can have any suitable size or geometry. In one aspect, theapertures are adapted to engage the interlocking straps with a degree offriction that provides a secure adjustment of the adjustable eyewearrestraint. Accordingly, the adjustable eyewear restraint can be adjusted(i.e. tightened or loosened) by applying a sufficient amount of force toovercome the degree of friction between the interconnecting straps andtheir respective apertures. Further, the first strap can engage the pairof second apertures in the second strap with a first degree of frictionand the second strap can engage the first aperture in the first strapwith a second degree of friction. At least one of the first degree offriction, the second degree of friction, or the additive frictionbetween these two interconnecting straps via the respective aperturescan be sufficient to secure the eyewear in a desired/intended positionon a user. The first degree of friction can be the same as, greaterthan, or less than the second degree of friction. The degree of frictioncan be adjusted based on the size and geometry of the apertures in therespective straps or bands, the size and geometry of the respectivestraps or bands, and/or the materials selected for the respective strapsor bands.

1. An adjustable eyewear restraint, comprising: a first strap comprising a first adjustment end and a first eyewear coupling end, said first eyewear coupling end being coupleable to a first eyewear frame portion; and a second strap comprising a second adjustment end and a second eyewear coupling end, said second eyewear coupling end being coupleable to a second eyewear frame portion; said first strap and said second strap being slidably engageable to one another to allow adjustment of a length of the restraint by moving at least one of the first adjustment end and the second adjustment end relative to the other one.
 2. The adjustable eyewear restraint of claim 1, wherein the first adjustment end of the first strap includes a first opening slidably frictionally engageable to the second strap, and wherein the second adjustment end of the second strap includes a second opening and a third opening, each of the second and third openings slidably frictionally engageable to the first strap.
 3. The adjustable eyewear restraint of claim 2, wherein each opening is sized and shaped to provide sufficient frictional force, between the opening and the respective strap slidably engageable there through, to retain the straps to each other about a wearer's head.
 4. The adjustable eyewear restraint of claim 3, wherein each opening has a cross sectional area smaller than a cross section area of the respective strap slidably engageable through the respective opening.
 5. The adjustable eyewear restraint of claim 1, wherein each adjustment end comprises a pull tab positioned on the same side of the retainer when the straps are slidably engaged to each other.
 6. The adjustable eyewear restraint of claim 1, wherein each strap comprises at least one of neoprene, neogreen, lycra, thermocline, silicone rubber, polyesters, polyamides, polypropylenes, cotton, silk, wool, leather, and combinations thereof.
 7. The adjustable eyewear restraint of claim 1, wherein the straps are slidably engaged to each other such that a length of the retainer is shortened when the adjustment ends are pulled away from each other, and such that a length of the retainer is lengthened when the adjustment ends are pulled toward each other.
 8. The adjustable eyewear restraint of claim 1, wherein the straps are slidably interwoven to each other about respective adjustment ends to form a substantially planar retainer configuration.
 9. The adjustable eyewear restraint of claim 1, wherein the first strap comprises a first male attachment and a first plurality of female attachments, and wherein the second strap comprises a second male attachment and a second plurality of female attachments, wherein the first plurality of female attachments are selectively interlockable to the second male attachment, and the second plurality of second female attachments are selectively interlockable to the first male attachment component.
 10. The adjustable eyewear restraint of claim 1, wherein each strap comprises a first edge and an opposing second edge attached together, proximate respective eyewear coupling ends, to form a loop that receives a respective earpiece, wherein the edges are attached to form an attachment portion substantially in-line with the first edge.
 11. An eyewear restraint system, comprising: a strap having an eyewear coupling end slidably coupleable to an earpiece, the eyewear coupling end having a loop sized and shaped to allow a portion of the earpiece to pass through the loop; and a frictional element coupleable to the earpiece and positionable adjacent the loop of the strap, said frictional element having a size and shape sufficient to frictionally engage the earpiece and retain the earpiece through the loop.
 12. The eyewear restraint system of claim 11, wherein the frictional element has a perimeter body portion that defines a cross sectional area larger than a cross sectional area of an aperture of the loop.
 13. The eyewear restraint system of claim 11, wherein the frictional element comprises an O-ring comprised of a compliant material.
 14. The eyewear restraint system of claim 11, wherein the frictional element comprises a compliant material and has an aperture sized and shaped to receive the earpiece such that the frictional element is frictionally and slidably coupleable to the earpiece for adjustment of the eyewear coupling end.
 15. The eyewear restraint system of claim 11, wherein the frictional element comprises an earpiece retainer having a first end and a second end, the first end positioned through the loop and having an opening sized and shaped to removably attach the earpiece retainer to the earpiece, and the second end positioned at least partially within the loop and having an enlarged interfacing portion that frictionally couples the earpiece retainer within the loop.
 16. The eyewear restraint system of claim 11, wherein the frictional element comprises a panel attached to the strap adjacent the loop, the friction panel having at least one opening configured to retain the earpiece.
 17. An adjustable eyewear restraint system, comprising: a pair of eyewear having a first earpiece and a second earpiece; a first adjustable eyewear restraint comprising a pair of straps, each strap having a loop slidably coupled to a respective earpiece of the pair of eyewear, the pair of straps slidably and frictionally engaged to one another to allow adjustment of a length of the first adjustable eyewear restraint by moving at least one of the straps relative to the other strap; and a second adjustable eyewear restraint comprising a pair of frictional elements, each frictional element slidably and frictionally coupled to a respective earpiece to allow adjustment of a length of the first adjustable eyewear restraint by moving at least one of the frictional elements relative to the respective earpiece.
 18. The adjustable eyewear restraint system of claim 17, wherein each strap has at least one opening slidably and frictionally engaged to the other strap, and wherein the at least one opening is sized and shaped to provide sufficient frictional force, between the opening and the respective strap slidably engaged there through, to retain the straps to each other and to retain the eyewear to a wearer.
 19. The adjustable eyewear restraint system of claim 17, wherein each strap comprises an adjustment end having the at least one opening, wherein a length of the first adjustable eyewear restraint is shortened when the adjustment ends of the straps are pulled away from each other, and wherein a length of the first adjustable eyewear restraint is lengthened when the adjustment ends of the straps are pulled toward each other.
 20. The adjustable eyewear restraint system of claim 17, wherein the straps are comprised of a positively buoyant material having a selected volume and density sufficient to impart positive buoyancy on the pair of eyewear when the straps and eyewear are in fresh or salt water. 21-30. (canceled) 